06 Jun 06
The rear bumper features an integrated rear diffuser that channels the airflow under the car and produces some 40Kg of downforce, resulting in an aerodynamic suction effect that keeps the rear end planted to the road. It's also much more efficient than using a rear spoiler, which causes speed-killing drag. It looks the business, too.
The wide front wings have vents cut in just ahead of the wheels that take the hot air from under the bonnet and force it out along the side of a car.
Aside from these F1-inspired touches, there's also a gaping front bumper, snazzy 17" alloys and a twin exhaust system that's integrated into that aforementioned diffuser.
Overall, the wheelbase has increased by a not-too-significant 10mm and the front and rear track are now identical at 1,520mm (+48mm front, +50mm rear). That wider track delivers a more stable platform. The rear torsion beam is 25% stiffer and the front suspension uses a double-axis strut system that keeps steering inputs independent from the suspension, allowing both systems to work more effectively.
On the road, this makes the Clio feel sure-footed with little body roll and a ride that is stiff, although never jarring or crashing over poor surfaces - something that the old Clio Trophy with its competition-spec dampers was guilty of. The 197 grips keenly, with very little understeer to speak of unless you carry a bit too much speed into a corner The ESP will then bring you back into line, albeit with intervention levels set reasonably high.
